Analysis of Mary Shelley ‘s ‘ Frankenstein ‘

Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein” is not just a seminal work of English literature but also a profound commentary on the human condition, the dangers of unchecked ambition, and the ethical boundaries of scientific exploration. In academic writing, citing such a complex text requires attention to detail and an understanding of the nuances of MLA citation standards. This essay will explore how to effectively analyze and cite “Frankenstein” within an academic paper, focusing on the subtleties of MLA style to ensure precision and adherence to academic standards.

Firstly, when analyzing “Frankenstein,” it’s crucial to consider the specific edition of the book since its publication in 1818 has led to numerous versions and editions, each potentially containing significant variations. For instance, the 1831 edition of “Frankenstein” includes a preface by Mary Shelley, which is absent in the 1818 version. This distinction is critical as it might affect the page numbering and content, which in turn impacts the accuracy of in-text citations.

When preparing a citation for “Frankenstein” in the Works Cited page under MLA guidelines, one must include the author’s name, the title of the book in italics, the publisher, the publication year, and the format. If you’re citing the 1831 edition, your citation might look like this:

Shelley, Mary. *Frankenstein: or, The Modern Prometheus*. Lackington, Hughes, Harding, Mavor, & Jones, 1831.

For in-text citations, MLA format requires the author’s last name and the page number without a comma between them, enclosed in parentheses. If you reference a specific quote from the book, your citation should directly follow the quote, for example:
As Victor Frankenstein reflects on his actions, he admits, “I had desired it with an ardour that far exceeded moderation; but now that I had finished, the beauty of the dream vanished, and breathless horror and disgust filled my heart” (Shelley 56).

In academic analysis, if you discuss a theme or a character like Victor Frankenstein or his creation, and use passages from different parts of the book, your in-text citation would include the relevant page numbers to lead the reader to those specific passages. For instance, discussing the creature’s development could lead you to cite various sections of the book where his self-awareness and learning process are described.

Furthermore, if your analysis involves a critical edition of “Frankenstein” that includes essays or annotations by other scholars, the citation must reflect these additional voices. For example, if you are using a critical edition edited by Leonard Wolf, which includes essays and annotations, your citation in the Works Cited list should look something like this:
Shelley, Mary. *Frankenstein: or, The Modern Prometheus*. Edited by Leonard Wolf, Harper Perennial, 2003.

When citing the editor or including quotations from the critical essays, your in-text citation must reflect this. For example:
In his analysis, Wolf points out that “the creature represents a duality of both the noble savage and the fallen angel” (Wolf 102).

This attention to detail ensures the reader understands not only the primary source but also the perspectives of other scholars contributing to the discussion of Shelley’s text.

Finally, remember that MLA guidelines evolve, and the way you cite sources might change slightly depending on the most recent edition of the MLA Handbook. Always consult the latest guidelines to ensure compliance with the current standards. Proper citation is crucial not only for avoiding plagiarism but also for enabling readers to find the sources for further research, thereby continuing the scholarly conversation on Mary Shelley’s profound narrative.

This analysis and guidance on citing “Frankenstein” using MLA style illuminate the intricacies of academic writing and reflect a deep respect for intellectual rigor and the scholarly community’s ongoing dialogue about classic literary works.

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